The Top 20 Wedding Trends for 2020

The Top 20 Wedding Trends for 2020

Wedding season is coming up and that means it’s time to check out the latest trends for 2020 events! Many of the top trends from 2019 will continue — like elegant, shared dining experiences and table arrangements and experiential photo ops (gotta get the right pics for Insta!) — while new and exciting trends for 2020 join the wedding celebrations; trends like vibrant lounge areas and personalization for guests in all-new unexpected ways and more. 

Check out the full list of trends below!

1. New Floral Trends: Smaller Florals take The Spotlight

For years floral arrangements utilizing wedding faves like peonies and other larger blooms were all the rage. In 2020, the subtle and understated floral arrangements, typically considered “filler” flower for arrangements, take center stage. Flowers like Baby’s Breath, Delphinium, and Lily of the Valley are the new “it” flower as they provide a light and airy arrangement without distracting from other event elements.

photographer: Christina McNeil

2. Chic Bold Accents

Gone are the trends of white and off-white only events. In 2020, we start seeing bold colors used as accents in events. Colors like black, navy, and olive green are favorites for this trend.

photographer: Jessica Bordner Photography

3. Asymmetrical Arches

This year, it’s all about the asymmetrical archway. We love the new styles and shapes we’re seeing from floral “L”-shaped arches to wispy nature-inspired arches using branches, leaves, and flower accents.

photographer: Sarah Mack Photo

4. Bold Patterns

Like trend #2 states, 2020 sees new bold accents and colors being used throughout the event. We’re seeing a particularly new bold take on the linen used for tables and event lounge items. Brides want to see bold, unique prints and feel empowered to take creative chances and push the boundaries here. We love this blue beachy print below.

Photographer: Trenholm Photography

5. Vibrant and Interactive Lounge Areas

This year we are seeing more interactive, vibrant, and sensory elements used in lounge areas for guests. Things like unique furniture groupings for enhanced conversations and the use of velvet, oak, and linen together for a soft sensory blend of fabrics.

photographer: KsDuty Photography

6. Carrying a Theme Throughout the Ceremony

For years, brides and grooms have picked a theme and/or colors and used that to guide their event decor. This year we take that theme incorporation to another level. We’re seeing more and more events where a theme is transitioned to everything from the invitations to the dance floor to the decor. 

photographer: Sarah Kate, Photographer

7. Ice Makes a Triumphant Return

Ice sculptures may seem so 1990’s but it’s back and bigger than ever! Just like the 90’s are now a recurring fashion trend, the decor and staple event pieces like the iconic ice sculpture are back as well. We like this twist on the trend with the ice sculpture serving as a functional shaving ice bar! 

Photographer: Trenholm Photography

8. Vintage Vans 

Vintage Vans are a carryover trend from years past and are big for 2020 as well! These vans make great event elements as they can be used as a photo booth and/or interactive photo backdrop to get the perfect Insta-worthy pic.

photographer: Laura Goldenberger

9. Bright Pops of Color in Tents

Color is making a come back in 2020 and in a big way; we’re seeing more use of color throughout the ceremony and event, particularly in canopies and tents. These pops of color really help tie in the theme and overall feel of the event together.

photographer: Virgil Bunao

10. Domestic Destination Weddings

While destination weddings are a thing, it doesn’t necessarily mean the bride and groom have to opt for leaving the country. In fact, 2020 sees the rise of domestic and local destination weddings. Places like Savannah Georgia, Ojai California, and Miami Florida are favorite local destinations.

photographer: Donna Von Bruening

11. Signature Drinks A La Punch Bowls

Just like the ice sculpture is making a triumphant return, the punch bowl is also having a moment back in the limelight. Couples want to share their favorite signature drinks with guests and one one they are doing that in 2020 is bringing back the beloved punch bowl and ladle.

photo courtesy of Wolfgang Puck Catering

12. Embracing Nature

The trend of bringing nature into the event fold is not new but 2020 takes it to a new level with nature taking the primary backdrop and setting for many couples. We can see the appeal too; by utilizing natural elements found in nature, there is less need to go over the top with decor. 

photo courtesy of Jenna Lam Events

13. New Wedding Aisles

Move over rose petals, there is a new trend for the wedding aisle in town: the rug. Yes, this trend may sound a bit weird but it’s becoming more and more popular. Outdoor ceremonies are increasingly incorporating rugs in the ceremony aisle both for functionality and for fashionable decor.

photographer: Liz Banfield

14. Insta-Photos Ready Immediately

Photographers have a hard job when it comes to weddings; they have to make sure to capture the couple’s most important day of their lives flawlessly. There aren’t any do-overs! And now, in 2020, thanks to the popularity of Instragram, couples are asking photographers to provide a few Instagram-worthy prints immediately the day of for all wedding guests to post. No more out-of-focus pics from Great Aunt Sally making their way onto your wedding hashtag.

Photo by Soulseeker from Pexels

15. Minimalism is Mega

2020 is seeing a resurgence of color but that doesn’t mean it’s cluttery. Minimalism and simplicity in design are big for this year. We’re seeing trends like single stem roses, simple horderves preparations, and clean lines in wedding dress attire.

photographer: André Maier Photography

16. Breathtaking Optical Illustions

For 2020, we’re adding a splash of magic to the mix with breathtaking optical illusions. For example, we’re seeing “floating cakes”, intricate vases, and mirage-inspired ceremony aisles like the one below.

photographer: Elizabeth Messin

17. Personalized Placards

Personalization has been king for a while now. In 2020, we see personalized guest placards showing guests where they sit. Guests no longer see just a table assignment, couples are using creative ways to show the relationship of each guest to the wedding party as well for even more meaningful connection and as an ice breaker for the table.

photographer: James x Schulze

18. Event Surprises!

Event surprises like fireworks, champagne and sparklers, or even being serenaded by a favorite artist is big for 2020. And, whether the bride and groom know about it is up to the couple! Some help opt in to surprise and thrill guests while other couples ask their bridal party to come up with a surprise for their big day.

photographer: Heather Kincaid


19. Creative Take Home Treats

Guests don’t really want to take a big bag of candy home from events. Instead, for 2020, couples are offering fun, quirky, and creative take home treats for guests. Items like a Boba Tea bar and local eatery favorites like bagels.

photographer: Peter Wynn Thompson Photography

20. Professional Performances!

Last but not least, professional performances are making a come back for big events. Performers like aerialists, synchronized swimmers, or personalized latte baristas are becoming ever popular for 2020.

photographer: Eric James Photography

Work with us!

Ready to cater your wedding or event? We’d love to help create a customized menu for you. For information and private tasting sessions, please contact our team via phone at 602-694-1197 and email at info@freshfromthekitchenllc.com.

About Fresh From the Kitchen: Under the direction of Chef Noelle Townsley, Fresh From The Kitchen has won numerous awards including the industry’s highest achievement, The Couple’s Choice award. Other achievements include: being named the 2013, 2015, and 2016 Best Event Caterer by Arizona Foothills Magazine and catering the 2015 Maxim Magazine featuring Nick Cannon Super Bowl Party, Will Smith’s 50th Birthday Party at the Grand Canyon in September 2018; and fully planned an elite dining and entertainment soiree for the Baltimore Raven’s and their sponsors. Nevertheless, whether you are a celebrity or not, please expect nothing but star treatment when working with Fresh from the Kitchen!